LINCOLN, Neb. -- Two lakes, one in Pierce County and one in Richardson County, have been issued health alerts for blue-green algae.

Officials said the Willow Creek Reservoir in Pierce County and Kirkman’s Cove Lake in Richardson County have both received health alerts for Harmful Algal Blooms, known as toxic blue-green algae.

The samples that were taken earlier in the week showed that the lakes were above the threshold of 8 parts per billion of total microcystin, a toxin released by certain strains of blue-green algae.

Signs will be posted to advise the public to use caution. Designated swimming beaches are closed during the alert.

Recreational boating and fishing is allowed but the public should use caution and avoid exposure to the water, particularly avoiding any activity that could lead to swallowing the water.


Pets should not get in the water or drink from the lake. People can still use the public areas for camping, picnics, and other outdoor activities.